When is entropy positive?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the conditions under which entropy, a measure of disorder or randomness in a system, is considered to be positive. This relates to concepts in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics.
Answer
Entropy is positive when ΔS > 0.
Entropy is positive when ΔS > 0, indicating that the final state of the process is more disordered than the initial state. Examples include melting, boiling, and sublimation.
Answer for screen readers
Entropy is positive when ΔS > 0, indicating that the final state of the process is more disordered than the initial state. Examples include melting, boiling, and sublimation.
More Information
Positive entropy changes are common in natural processes where the system moves from order to disorder.
Tips
Avoid assuming that all phase changes have positive entropy; consider processes individually.
